Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

Under the supervision of qualified practitioner/teachers students will take responsibility for handling clients' legal problems at Monash-Oakleigh Legal Service or at other clinics operated by the Faculty. Students will take instructions, open files, research the law and conduct cases in the manner of a practitioner. In appropriate cases they may represent clients in court. The practice fields most commonly arising in the legal work undertaken at the clinic are criminal charges, family disputes and a wide range of civil matters.

Objectives

Students who have successfully completed this unit will have acquired the following competencies:

1. the ability to interview clients, analyse facts and apply relevant legal principles
2. the ability to engender a client's confidence in the professional competence of the student
3. the ability to negotiate and utilize other applicable dispute resolution mechanisms in the client's interest
4. the ability to identify ethical issues and to determine the appropriate professional and personal resolution of such ethical issues
5. a deeper understanding of the lawyer's role in the legal system and in the administration of justice.

Assessment

For students joining Monash Oakleigh Legal Service (MOLS) as clinic participant:

Taking instructions 25%
Follow up with supervisor 25%
Drafting and negotiation skills file management 20%
Office procedure 10%
Improvement during course 10%
General work practice skills 10%

Students are assessed continuously on their interviewing skills, analytical and research skills and written skills. Feedback is provided on virtually each piece of work completed. Formative assessment is provided mid-course in the form of a private discussion with the supervisor. At the conclusion of the course, a student's overall performance throughout the unit is assessed according to grades of Merit, Credit, Pass or Fail.

Off-campus attendance requirements

8 hours per week for 20 weeks. 4 hours at the clinic plus follow up work throughout the fortnight and regular discussion with supervisor. Average 8 hours per week throughout the course

Prerequisites

Successful completion of a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (or equivalent) including the specified subjects required for admission to practice, is a pre-requisite.